International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy
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Volume 16 Num. 3 - October 2016

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The Relationship between Social Maladjustment, Childhood Abuse and Suicidal Behavior in College Students

Volume 16 Num. 3 - October 2016 - Pages 235-248

Authors:

Danielle M. Restrepo , Megan S. Chesin , Elizabeth L. Jeglic

Abstract:

There are over 1,000 suicides on college campuses annually. Childhood abuse and social maladjustment are risk factors for suicidal behavior in the college student population. Few studies have investigated how these variables combine to instantiate risk for suicidal behavior. Thus, the current study examined the role of social maladjustment (i.e. insecure attachment style and inadequate social support) in the relationship between childhood abuse and suicidal behavior among college students. Six hundred fifty-nine undergraduate college students completed online self-report questionnaires measuring childhood sexual and physical abuse, suicidal behavior, social support, and attachment style. Structural equation modeling was used to explore hypothesized relationships between childhood abuse, social maladjustment, and suicidal behavior. Social maladjustment mediated the relationship between childhood physical and sexual abuse and suicidal behavior. These findings reveal social maladjustment is a pathway by which childhood abuse is associated with suicidal behavior. Implications are discussed as they pertain to improving suicide prevention interventions for college students.

How to cite: Restrepo DM, Chesin D, & Jeglic EL (2016). The Relationship between Social Maladjustment, Childhood Abuse and Suicidal Behavior in College Students. International Journal of Psychology and Psychological Therapy, 16, 235-248.

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